Why Take Day Trips from Reykjavík

Reykjavík is close to many of Iceland’s most breathtaking sights. In just a few hours’ drive, you can reach dramatic coastlines, volcanic craters, and glaciers. This makes it easy to plan trips that suit every interest, whether you prefer waterfalls, hiking trails, or geothermal pools.

Travelling by car gives you complete flexibility. You can start early, avoid crowds, and stay longer wherever you like. Iceland’s main roads are well-maintained, and the most popular routes are clearly signposted. Many travellers prefer day trips over multi-day tours, as they can return to Reykjavík for a comfortable evening.

Whether you stay a few days or a week, day trips from Reykjavík reveal Iceland’s beauty in simple, memorable ways.

Top Day Trips from Reykjavík

Want to visit Iceland’s most iconic attractions in a single day? Here are some of the favourite day trips from Reykjavík you can explore.

1. Golden Circle: Iceland’s Classic Route

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most famous driving route. It combines three incredible attractions, all within 120 km (75 mi) of the capital.

• Þingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. You can literally walk between continents and even snorkel at the Silfra Fissure.
• The Geysir Geothermal Area features Strokkur. It’s an active geyser that erupts every 5–10 minutes, shooting water up to 30 m (98 ft) into the air.
• Gullfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic falls, roars down two tiers into a deep canyon. On sunny days, rainbows form in the mist.

You can drive the Golden Circle in one day, allowing time for lunch and photo stops. If you have more time, include stopovers at the Secret Lagoon or Kerið Crater along the route. It’s a must for any first-time visitor to Iceland.

2. South Coast: Waterfalls and Black Sand Beaches

For those who love the dramatic side of Iceland, the South Coast is a dream route. It’s packed with photogenic stops and can be explored easily in a day.

• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall allows you to walk behind the curtain of water, a magical experience.
• Skógafoss Waterfall is nearby and equally impressive, dropping 60 m (197 ft) with incredible force.
• Sólheimajökull Glacier is an accessible spot to see Iceland’s glacial landscape up close. You can walk to the viewpoint or join a short guided ice walk.
• Dyrhólaey is a coastal headland with sweeping cliff views, sea stacks, and a massive stone arch stretching into the sea. It’s also a great spot to see puffins in Iceland during the summer.
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, near Vík, is one of Iceland’s most beautiful yet dangerous beaches. The basalt columns and sea stacks are striking, but stay well back from the waves.

The drive along the Ring Road is scenic, following coastal cliffs and farmlands with views of glaciers like Eyjafjallajökull. If you start early, you can reach Vík and return to Reykjavík by evening.

3. Snæfellsnes Peninsula: “Iceland in Miniature”

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, about 150 km (93 mi) northwest of Reykjavík, is often called “Iceland in Miniature.” And that’s because it contains everything Iceland is famous for, including volcanoes, glaciers, cliffs, and charming villages.

Highlights include:

• Kirkjufell Mountain, one of Iceland’s most photographed peaks, is often seen with a foreground waterfall.
• Arnarstapi and Hellnar are coastal villages with spectacular sea cliffs and natural arches.
• Ytri Tunga Beach is known for its golden sand. It’s also popular for its resident seal colony, which can often be seen lounging on the rocks.
• Djúpalónssandur Beach is a striking black-pebble beach scattered with shipwreck remains and surrounded by twisted lava formations.
• Snæfellsjökull National Park is dominated by the glacier-topped volcano. It’s made famous by Jules Verne’s novel Journey to the Centre of the Earth.
• Svöðufoss Waterfall is a beautiful, lesser-known cascade framed by dark basalt columns.

Driving the full loop takes around 5–6 hours, so plan a full day. The scenery changes constantly, from lava fields to golden beaches, making it one of the best day trips from Reykjavik.

4. Reykjanes Peninsula: Geothermal Wonders and the Blue Lagoon

Just south of Reykjavík lies the Reykjanes Peninsula, a geothermal wonderland often overlooked by travellers. It’s also where Keflavík International Airport and the Blue Lagoon are located, one of the top geothermal baths in Iceland.

Top stops include:

• Kleifarvatn Lake is a deep volcanic lake surrounded by steep hills.
• Fagradalsfjall Volcano has experienced several recent eruptions. You can hike through lava fields and see the raw power of Iceland’s volcanic landscape.
• Krýsuvík and Seltún Geothermal Areas feature steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and colourful mineral deposits.
• Brimketill Lava Rock Pool is a natural rock formation shaped by pounding waves. It’s a dramatic photo stop on windy days.
• Gunnuhver Hot Springs, Iceland’s largest mud pool, is named after a ghost said to haunt the site.
• The Bridge Between Continents is a symbolic footbridge connecting the Eurasian and North American plates.
• Blue Lagoon is perfect for a relaxing soak in warm, mineral-rich water before heading back to the city.

The Reykjanes Peninsula self-drive route is filled with raw energy and surreal landscapes, ideal for a half or full-day trip.

Hidden Gems Near Reykjavík

While Iceland’s famous routes are stunning, there are plenty of quieter destinations that also make great day trips from Reykjavik. These lesser-known gems offer peace, beauty, and a sense of discovery.

• Reykjadalur Hot Spring River: A short hike near Hveragerði leads to a natural hot spring where you can bathe in the warm stream.
• Glymur Waterfall: Once Iceland’s tallest waterfall at 198 m (650 ft), it is reached via a scenic hike through a canyon.
• Hraunfossar and Barnafoss: Twin waterfalls near Borgarfjörður, where clear water flows through lava rock into the Hvítá River.
• Þríhnúkagígur Volcano: One of Iceland’s most extraordinary experiences, where you can descend into a dormant volcanic chamber, an adventure unlike any other.
• Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar): A short ferry ride from the South Coast. It offers dramatic sea cliffs, volcanic craters, and the world’s largest puffin colony in summer.
• Þórufoss: A lesser-known waterfall featured in Game of Thrones, located just off the Golden Circle route.

Tips for Planning the Perfect Day Trip

Driving in Iceland is safe and straightforward, but preparation makes the experience smoother.

Plan ahead and start early:

• Check weather forecasts before setting off.
• Leave Reykjavík early to enjoy daylight and avoid tour buses.
• Download offline maps in case of a weak signal.

Stay safe on the road:

• Always check road conditions on safetravel.is or road.is, especially in winter.
• Watch for animals on the road in Iceland’s rural areas, particularly sheep.
• Keep headlights on at all times, even during the day.

Prepare everything you need:

• Keep water and a full tank of fuel.
• Bring warm, waterproof clothing and snacks.
• Carry a phone charger and extra layers for changing weather.

Renting a Car for Your Reykjavík Day Trips

A rental car opens up Iceland in a way that organised day tours simply can’t. Travellers can stop for photos, explore side roads, and linger where the scenery is best. With a reliable vehicle from MyCar, it’s easy to start early and make the most of every daylight hour.

When renting a car in Iceland:

• Bring your driver’s licence: A valid licence from your home country (in Latin characters) is accepted. An International Driving Permit is recommended if your licence is not in English.
• Choose the right vehicle: Economy cars work well in summer. For winter driving in Iceland or when exploring gravel routes, 4x4 SUV rentals in Iceland provide better control and safety.
• Know your insurance: Common options include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Gravel Protection (GP), Sand and Ash Protection (SAAP), and Theft Protection (TP).
• Know the rules: Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Headlights must be on at all times, and off-road driving is strictly prohibited.
• Fuel and returns: Return your car with a full tank unless your rental includes a prepaid fuel option.

Best Time of Year for Day Trips from Reykjavík

Each season in Iceland offers a different kind of beauty. The best time for day trips depends on your interests and comfort with driving conditions.

Summer (June–August):

• Easy driving on clear roads.
• Long days and mild temperatures.
• Ideal for waterfalls, beaches, and extended routes like Snæfellsnes.

Autumn (September–October):

• Fewer tourists and colourful landscapes.
• Roads are still mostly clear, but days are shorter.

Winter (November–March):

• Magical snow scenes, frozen waterfalls, and Northern Lights possibilities.
• Road surfaces in Iceland may be icy; MyCar 4x4 rental vehicles are recommended.

Spring (April–May):

• Melting snow brings powerful waterfalls and blooming moss fields.
• A great balance of daylight and manageable road conditions.

Check forecasts, daylight hours, and always allow extra travel time. With a good vehicle and flexible plan, any season can be rewarding.

Discover Iceland One Day at a Time

Reykjavík is the perfect base for exploring Iceland’s wild landscapes without committing to long road trips. From the geysers of the Golden Circle to the cliffs of Snæfellsnes, each route reveals the country’s different sides.

Self-drive adventures let travellers connect more deeply with Iceland. Stopping where the light is best, discovering hidden corners, and travelling on their own terms.

With reliable MyCar rental vehicles, planning day trips from Reykjavik has never been easier. Each journey starts with a full tank and endless possibilities. Pack your camera, check the weather, and experience the magic of Iceland, one day at a time.

FAQs About Day Trips from Reykjavík

What is the best day trip from Reykjavik?

The Golden Circle is the most popular day trip from Reykjavik. It boasts waterfalls, geysers, and views of tectonic plates all in one route.

Which is better, the Golden Circle or the Ring Road?

The Golden Circle is ideal for short visits from the capital. Meanwhile, the Ring Road lets you see more of Iceland, but it takes several days to complete.

Can you drive the Golden Circle in one day?

Yes, you can easily drive the Golden Circle in one day. The full loop from Reykjavik takes around 6–8 hours with stops.

How far are the waterfalls from Reykjavik?

Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Skógafoss are all between 115 km (71 mi) and 150 km (93 mi) from Reykjavík. All can be reached easily as day trips of roughly 2 hours from the city centre.

Is Gullfoss waterfall worth it?

Absolutely. Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most breathtaking and accessible waterfalls, and part of the Golden Circle route.

Do I need a 4x4 vehicle for day trips from Reykjavík?

Not always. Most main routes, such as the Golden Circle and the South Coast, are paved. However, you need a 4x4 in Iceland for gravel roads or winter driving.